(MENAFN) Lionel Messi delivered a commanding performance on Saturday night, scoring a hat-trick to lead Inter Miami to a 5-2 victory over Nashville SC in their final regular-season MLS clash.

Despite falling behind early, Miami mounted a relentless second-half surge, securing three points that locked them into third place in the Eastern Conference with 65 points—just one shy of leaders Philadelphia Union.

Messi ignited the comeback in the first half, chesting down a pinpoint pass from Jordi Alba, gliding past two defenders, and smashing a 20-yard strike past Nashville goalkeeper Joe Willis at the near post.

Nashville responded quickly. Sam Surridge nodded home the equalizer after a cross from Hany Mukhtar, who later played a role in the go-ahead goal when his shot ricocheted off the post, setting up Jacob Shaffelburg for a simple tap-in.

Miami drew level shortly after the break through a Messi penalty, awarded after a handball by Andy Najar.

Momentum shifted fully in Miami’s favor when Baltasar Rodriguez capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting in a composed finish from close range.

Messi struck again moments later, exchanging a quick one-two with Ian Fray before hammering a left-footed shot into the far corner to complete his hat-trick.

The Argentine star then turned playmaker, racing onto another delivery from Fray and setting up Telasco Segovia, who slotted in Miami’s fifth from close range.

With 29 goals and 19 assists, Messi closed out the regular season as MLS Golden Boot winner.

"What can I say about Leo? The truth is that he was exceptional today, as he usually is," said Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano after the match. "They'll surely award him the MVP for everything he's done. I'm happy for him because he helped us win the game again."

Miami and Nashville are set to face off once more in the first round of the playoffs, a best-of-three series that promises another high-stakes showdown.

Nashville, finishing sixth with 54 points, will be looking to regroup as they prepare for the postseason.

MENAFN19102025000045017169ID1110216989